Stephen Colbert, host of "The Late Show," addressed the arrests at the congressional office building close to the U.S. Capitol Building last week. He called it "first-degree puppetry."
Colbert began Monday's program by explaining how his production team was arrested at the Longworth House Office Building and charged with unlawful entrance. The group went to Washington, D.C., to film a comedy skit, and to interview Congress members in order to highlight ongoing public hearings about the Jan. 6 Capitol Attack.
"Democratic and Republican Congresspeople agreed to speak to Triumph. He is a bipartisan puppy. Colbert joked that he is so neutral, he has been neutered."
Colbert stated that the production team shot footage in Congress offices on Wednesday and Thursday. They also went through security clearances. Colbert said that they were invited to the offices of the legislators they were interviewing.
After they had finished their interviews on Thursday night, the host stated that the team was performing "last-minute puppetry" at the time they were taken into custody by Capitol Police. CBS News was informed by Capitol Police that the team was asked to leave earlier in the day.
Colbert stated that the Capitol Police are more cautious than they were 18 months ago. "If you don’t know the reason, I know which news network you watch."
Stephen discusses last week's nonsurrection. pic.twitter.com/6dwPxQfGdG
Colbert stated that both Capitol Police officers and his staff were performing their duties and that everyone was calm and professional. Colbert's staff were processed and released.
"A very unpleasant experience, a lot paperwork for the Capitol Police. Colbert stated that it was a simple story.
Colbert was not happy with the way some TV personalities presented the incident. Tucker Carlson, Fox News' Tucker Carlson, called the incident an "insurrection at the Capitol building" - despite the fact that it did not take place in the actual building.
He said, "I'm shocked that I have to explain what the difference is, but an insurrection involves disrupting lawful actions of Congress, and howling for blood of elected leaders all to prevent peaceful transfer of power." This was first-degree puppetry. This was high jinks and intent to have a good time.
Paramount Global is home to "The Late Show", which is similar to CBS News.
